Mary Fitzpatrick (Fianna Fail) | Oireachtas source

I would like to draw the attention of the House to the wonderful State-sponsored free amenity that is the Royal Canal. It runs all the way from the Liffey, at Spencer Dock in my constituency, to Longford, a distance of almost 150 km. During the pandemic it has been an amazing amenity for the people of the north inner city, providing a space for walking, cycling and picnicking. It has taken more than ten years, but today will see the official opening of a section of the Royal Canal running from Sheriff Street to the North Strand. It is a relatively small stretch of the canal. When I brought this up with the city council more than ten years ago, I was told it was not city council land. It was owned by CIÉ and Waterways Ireland. Several State bodies would have to be involved. They all engaged and worked together. It is a great tribute to the public servants, designers, architects, engineers, construction workers and city council officials who have opened up that part of the Royal Canal. It is now a premium cycle route and walkway for everybody to enjoy free of charge.

I would like to ask the Leader to talk to the Minister for Transport, Tourism and Sport about the next steps for the Royal Canal premium cycle route, of which this was phase 2. I would like to see phases 3 and 4 accelerated, extending the cycle route to Cross Guns Bridge in Phibsborough and from there all the way to Ashtown. It is a really well-used part of the city. It is a safe off-road cycle route running all the way from the M50 to the Irish Financial Services Centre. It is the type of public space in which we should invest for the enjoyment of everybody, either as an amenity or as a means of transport.

I would also like to thank everyone in the House, particularly the staff, who have been incredibly accommodating and supportive since I was appointed. To the Senators of all parties and none, I would like to say that it has taken me more than 16 years to get to this House. I have worked with public representatives of all parties and none. It is not my intention to waste my time or that of other Members. I will work with all Senators. We are coming through a pandemic. In the case taken by Friends of the Irish Environment that was decided today it took the courts to confirm to the world that our State is failing on climate action. We are also in the midst of a housing crisis. I will work with all Senators. However, when a vote is called on cleaning the Chamber I have to doubt their bona fides. Let us put yesterday's incident behind us and move forward. I hope Members enjoy the recess.